Following are highlight of events and activities from Richland County Government in January:

• At its first meeting of the year Tuesday, members of Richland County Council chose Norman Jackson to be its Chair and Joyce Dickerson to serve as Vice Chair for 2014. Jackson, who represents District 11, was first elected to Council in 2006. Dickerson, first elected to Council in 2004, represents District 2.
• Richland County donated a decommissioned Sheriff’s department vehicle to Allen University’s police department. The seven-officer department had just one vehicle. The donated 2008 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor will be used to patrol the campus, respond to calls, conduct emergency response and transport detainees to the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center. The County’s Fleet Services Department gave the vehicle a fresh paint job and maintenance check before the keys and title were given to Allen University.
• For the 19th consecutive year, Richland County was recognized by government finance professionals across the nation and in Canada for its exemplary efforts to maintain financial transparency, encourage accuracy in its budgeting process and promote a strong financial plan. The County received the award from the Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA).
•  Richland County officials used a combination of new technology and old-fashioned hard work to ensure January’s winter storm, which walloped much of the state, did not deliver a crippling blow to County residents. The combined efforts of Richland County’s Emergency Services and Public Works departments helped to minimize the effect of snow and ice on roadways and ensure emergency officials could respond to residents.
• Richland County unveiled its 215th anniversary seal. Plans are in the works to hold several community events throughout the year to celebrate the County’s past and look ahead to the future.